Trump needs to be bold, direct with Xi over Taiwan dispute |
Trump needs to be bold, direct with Xi over Taiwan dispute
U.S.-China summit meetings always have the potential for major developments, with historic international consequences. This week’s discussion in Washington between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping promises to be more consequential than most. That it is being held in D.C. rather than Beijing is a small blessing for the U.S. national interest and for long-term international security.
U.S. presidents have tended to ingratiate themselves with adversarial Chinese hosts by making ill-advised, gratuitous concessions to China regarding Taiwan’s fate. Richard Nixon in 1972 set the stage for formal de-recognition of Taiwan in the Shanghai Communiqué, officially consummated by Jimmy Carter. Bill Clinton, despite having been advised not to do so, announced the “three nos” during his June 1998 visit to China: no U.S. support for Taiwan independence, no “Two Chinas” policy and no support for Taiwan’s official participation in international organizations.
Having the meeting on America’s home turf just weeks before the midterm elections should give a small negotiating advantage to Trump. Though marginal, it is better than providing even a slight edge to Chinese hosts who know how to exploit it over the long run. But then Trump could squander his home-court advantage if he appears over-eager, even desperate, for a negotiating “win” to boost sagging Republican prospects in November.
While achieving a........